A replica of the biblical Ark , built by Dutchman Johan Huibers, is 150 cubits long, 30 cubits high and 20 cubits wide -- the exact length given in the Bible. It's two-thirds the length of a football field and as high as a three-story house.

Life-size models of giraffes, elephants, lions, crocodiles, zebras, bison and other animals greet visitors as they arrive in the main hold. A contractor by trade, Huibers built the ark of cedar and pine. Huibers did the work mostly with his own hands, using modern tools and with occasional help from his son Roy.

On the uncovered top deck, there will soon be a petting zoo with baby lambs, chickens, goats, and one camel.